Apple CarPlay to receive major update with iOS 26
Apple is giving its popular CarPlay interface (it's apparently used more than 600-million times per day) a significant refresh with the launch of iOS 26, expected to roll out this autumn — or spring for those of us living in the southern hemisphere.
The update includes a cleaner interface and a new compact call view, so you can see who's ringing without losing sight of important details such as your next turn.
Messages in CarPlay are also getting smarter: iOS 26 introduces Tapbacks and pinned conversations, features familiar to iPhone users but now adapted for safer, in-car use. Plus, with the addition of widgets and Live Activities, drivers can stay updated on things such as the weather or calendar events without taking their eyes off the road for long.
These enhancements will also apply to CarPlay Ultra, Apple's next-generation system expected to feature in more new vehicles over the next year.
For South African drivers it's a welcome move, especially as more South African models adopt wireless CarPlay as standard.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Eyewitness News
4 hours ago
- Eyewitness News
Musk regrets some of his Trump criticisms, says they 'went too far'
WASHINGTON - Elon Musk, the world's richest person and Donald Trump's former advisor, said Wednesday he regretted some of his recent criticisms of the US president, after the pair's public falling-out last week. "I regret some of my posts about President @realDonaldTrump last week. They went too far," Musk wrote on his social media platform X, in a message that was received favorably by the White House. Musk's expression of regret came just days after Trump threatened the tech billionaire with "serious consequences" if he sought to punish Republicans who vote for a controversial spending bill. Their blistering break-up - largely carried out on social media before a riveted public since Thursday last week - was ignited by Musk's harsh criticism of Trump's so-called "big, beautiful" spending bill, which is currently before Congress. Some lawmakers who were against the bill had called on Musk - one of the Republican Party's biggest financial backers in last year's presidential election - to fund primary challenges against Republicans who voted for the legislation. "He'll have to pay very serious consequences if he does that," Trump, who also branded Musk "disrespectful," told NBC News on Saturday, without specifying what those consequences would be. Trump also said he had "no" desire to repair his relationship with the South African-born Tesla and SpaceX chief, and that he has "no intention of speaking to him." But after Musk's expression of regret, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that Trump was "appreciative," adding that "no efforts" had been made on a threat by Trump to end some of Musk's government contracts. "The president acknowledged the statement that Elon put out this morning, and he is appreciative of it," Leavitt said. According to the New York Times, Musk's message followed a phone call to Trump late on Monday night. Vice President JD Vance and Chief of Staff Susan Wiles had also been working with Musk on how to broker a truce with Trump, the report said. 'WISH HIM WELL' In his post on Wednesday, Musk did not specify which of his criticisms of Trump had gone "too far." The former allies had seemed to have cut ties amicably about two weeks ago, with Trump giving Musk a glowing send-off as he left his cost-cutting role at the so-called Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). But their relationship cracked within days, with Musk describing the spending bill as an "abomination" that, if passed by Congress, could define Trump's second term in office. Trump hit back at Musk's comments in an Oval Office diatribe and from there the row detonated, leaving Washington stunned. Trump later said on his Truth Social platform that cutting billions of dollars in subsidies and contracts to Musk's companies would be the "easiest way" to save the US government money. US media have put the value of the contracts at $18 billion. With real political and economic risks to their falling out, both already appeared to inch back from the brink on Friday, with Trump telling reporters "I just wish him well," and Musk responding on X: "Likewise." Trump had spoken to NBC on Saturday after Musk deleted one of the explosive allegations he had made during their fallout, linking the president with disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, who was accused of sex trafficking.
IOL News
15 hours ago
- IOL News
Mobile networks summoned to Parliament over data costs and connectivity gaps
SA's cellphone network providers are set to face tough questions from Communications Committee on compliance, equity, and readiness for future licence renewals Image: File South Africa's Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies has summoned major mobile network operators; Vodacom, MTN, Cell C, Telkom, and Rain to appear before it on Friday. This oversight session is part of Parliament's constitutional responsibility to balance government oversight with industry evaluation, especially in relation to pressing national priorities. The committee's mandate is twofold: to oversee the MNOs' adherence to South African legislation, policy, and regulatory frameworks, and to assess how the evolving telecommunications landscape supports investment and economic growth. As the nation grapples with various socio-political challenges and rapid technological advancements, the focus will be on drawing recommendations to foster a conducive environment for progress. During the session, the MNOs are expected to brief the committee on their progress in addressing critical challenges faced by the populace. Among the issues listed for discussion are: Strategies for reducing the cost of data services Network connectivity standards, especially in rural areas Contributions to job creation and economic inclusion, particularly for historically disadvantaged groups, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities Measures to enhance data security and privacy Compliance with universal service obligations and incremental improvements in school connectivity Adherence to directives laid out by the Competition Commission As the licences of these MNOs are set to be renewed within the next three years, the committee is keenly aware of the crucial role these companies play in meeting the targets set forth in the National Development Plan, which aims for universal connectivity by 2030. The Chairperson of the committee, Khusela Sangoni Diko, emphasised, 'To this end, it is essential that, as a country, we seize the opportunities presented by rapid technological advancement to ensure no one is left behind.' This upcoming oversight session is not just a routine check-in; it highlights the imperative for MNOs to actively contribute to South Africa's socio-economic landscape while navigating existing legislative frameworks. The outcomes of this meeting could shape the future trajectory of the telecommunications industry in South Africa, defining how it will evolve to better serve the diverse needs of its citizens. IOL
The Citizen
17 hours ago
- The Citizen
Iconic Fiat Panda 4x4 poised to make Grande all-electric comeback
Modern day version of old favourite is a blend of its rich heritage and new innovation. Fiat's cute little go-anywhere Panda was to South African's what the Jimny is to Suzuki fans. Now it has been shown as the new Grande Panda 4×4 concept, a legendary icon reborn to capture the imagination of drivers around the world. The next chapter in the legacy of the Italian brand is marked by a potential true symbol of versatility, reliability, and freedom on four wheels. First launched in 1983, the Fiat Panda 4×4 quickly won over generations of enthusiasts by delivering a unique combination of practicality, comfort and elegance. All wrapped in a compact form capable of tackling any terrain. Fiat Panda reborn Think Suzuki Jimny again. Small on the outside, yet cleverly spacious on the inside. It offered everyday drivability paired with rugged off-road capability, embodying the ideal balance of city car and mountain climber. It was a revolution in motion: accessible, adaptable, and beloved by everyone. With its eyes set firmly on the future, the new Grande Panda 4×4 project is destined to be a manifesto for a fresh vision of sustainable mobility. It is a vision rooted in innovation and in line with current dictates, while maintaining the characteristics that made it a global cult favourite. Back in 2007 The Citizen Motoring accordingly had a Fiat Panda on test. It produced a mere 44kW of power and 102 Nm of torque from its 1 200cc naturally aspirated engine. But now, the Grande Panda 4×4 concept is powered with an electrified innovative rear axle. Embracing sustainability This feature would enable the vehicle to deliver impressive performance in urban settings and on more demanding terrain. It's a deliberate choice that underscores Fiat's ongoing commitment to embracing increasingly sustainable and forward-looking technologies. All while preserving the adventurous spirit and everyday practicality that have always defined the Panda 4×4. The choice of materials and colours have been chosen to define the spirit of this Grande Panda 4×4 Concept model. It is all about the concept of freedom, adventure and desire to rediscover the connection the original had with nature. On the exterior, the iconic dark red colour has been reinterpreted in a modern key with a deep, enveloping Bordeaux. The beige details also dress the model with a nostalgic reference to the great 4×4 icon. ALSO READ: Boxy and retro meet as Fiat debuts all-new Grande Panda Blending heritage with innovation The Grande Panda 4×4 Concept, which is now Fiat's potential next four-wheel drive is accessorised with two lamps on the roof rack in addition to those on the front. A list of even more accessories will likely be available if the vehicle comes into production. With this modern reinterpretation of the Fiat Panda 4×4, the carmaker has reaffirmed its desire to blend heritage and innovation. It is in response to the needs of a changing mobility landscape while not losing sight of the model's authentic and deeply popular soul.
